Overview & Reviews

Born in the early '80s, the Chevrolet Cavalier was General Motor's attempt to regain market share that had been lost to Japanese manufacturers who had been the first to recognize the public's need for compact, more fuel-efficient transportation. Though inferior to its competition in most respects, the Cavalier proved to be a hit with consumers, emerging as a consistent sales leader for Chevrolet.

The Cavalier's success was built in large part on the value it offered, though updates were few and far between. The Cavalier was on the market from 1982-2005, and in those 24 years, there were only two generations. Still, despite the fact that many models were built on aged platforms relative to the competition, the Chevrolet Cavalier enjoyed popularity, largely because of its irresistibly low price.

One significant factor to consider when deciding whether a Cavalier is right for you is safety. Throughout its life cycle, the Cavalier has received poor to lukewarm crash test scores. Another is overall quality. Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.

Resale value has been low for Cavaliers, making them an extremely affordable option. Still, in light of its shortcomings, we'd recommend that those shopping in this category consider other alternatives, such as later-model Korean imports.

Most Recent Chevrolet Cavalier

The Chevrolet Cavalier's second and most recent generation was built from model-year 1995-2005. Cavaliers built in 1995-2000 were available as sedans, coupes and convertibles, but as of 2001, drop-top versions of this Chevy were dropped from the lineup.

Trim levels varied over this generation's 10-year run. Chevrolet offered base, LS and Z24 trims for the majority of the time but later changed the lineup to just base, LS and LS Sport. The standard features list on base-model Cavaliers included little more than air-conditioning and an AM/FM stereo.

When the second-generation Chevy Cavalier was first unveiled, buyers had a choice of two engines. Base models were motivated by a 2.2-liter, 120-horsepower four-cylinder. Those seeking more power could choose a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine ("Quad4") good for 150 hp. After just one year, the 2.3-liter was replaced with an updated 2.4-liter version that also made 150 hp.

A new 2.2-liter, DOHC, 16-valve, "Ecotec" four-cylinder engine appeared in the Cavalier for the first time during the 2002 model year. While base Cavaliers continued with the ancient OHV 2.2-liter four and the Z24 still had the 2.4-liter unit, the 140-hp Ecotec was a clear improvement over any previous Cavalier power plant in terms of overall drivability and refinement. The 2.4-liter engine was dropped in 2003.

Although there weren't any redesigns in the final 10 years of the Cavalier's life, the model did see some upgrades. In 1999, the 2.4-liter engine was refined to improve reliability, emissions and fuel economy. And in 2000, the car was given a smoother-shifting manual transmission; its antilock brake system was also improved, and it saw exterior revisions like new body-colored front and rear fascias and new headlights and taillights. The car's exterior was updated once again in 2003, and XM Satellite Radio became available as an option. Audiophiles should know that in 2004, the base-model Cavalier was given an improved stereo, with CD and MP3 playback capability.

One unfortunate Cavalier hallmark is its dated interior. Build quality is subpar and materials quality leaves a lot to be desired. Seats also miss the mark when it comes to comfort. On the plus side, though, later models are available with both OnStar and XM Satellite Radio.

In editorial reviews, the Chevrolet Cavalier was praised for offering acceptable handling and power, and a reasonably compliant ride. Cons included a dated platform and poor crash test scores. In consumer reviews, the car was praised for its fuel economy but panned for its dull interior styling.

Past Chevrolet Cavaliers

The first-generation Chevy Cavalier existed from 1982-'94. Standard features amounted to little more than an AM/FM audio system. A Cavalier wagon was available, in addition to the coupe, sedan and convertible. (The wagon was dropped with the second generation.) There was also the sporty Z24 variant, which debuted in 1986 and offered a spunky V6, a firmer suspension, alloy wheels and obligatory tape graphics.

With such a long spell between redesigns, Cavaliers built in the '90s offered a positively ancient platform compared to the competition. The model did see some tweaks over the years, though. In 1991, the Cavalier received sheet metal revisions. The following year, ABS joined the standard features list, and base engines saw hp increase by 15 to 110. In 1994, base engines saw another horsepower boost, up 10 hp to 120. Air-conditioning, a sunroof and a CD player were all available as options.

Again, resale values on these Chevys are low. Other than bargain-basement prices, though, these older Cavaliers have little to offer.

User Reviews:

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  Good Quality car - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By -dood- - September 7 - 2:00 am

  This car is a good quality car to drive. It has a sporty exterior that turns eyes and a good midsized engine that performs very well. I have had little trouble with the car and it doesnt look like i will have much later either.

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  Still running strong... - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By mrmcderm - September 4 - 2:00 am

  I have had this car almost 6 years, and have put 85k on it (mostly highway) and it still runs well. I had A LOT of problems with the coolant system when it was new (1 year old). Was in the shop 7+ times in 3 mos. Eventually filed and won a lemon law suit against GM. Since then, no problems. Seats are falling apart (moldings and adjustments) and has a lot of dings...i just hope it keeps running.

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  Great Value - 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By BusyMan - September 2 - 2:00 am

  I bought the 95 Cav used with 140K mi on it in Dec 1999 for $2500). It is 3 years later, at a whopping 183K and aside from reg maint(oil, tires) I have only had to make one small repair to the bearing ($300). This car wont die! The body still looks like new, inside is great (roomy for a tall guy like me), and I still enjoy it. I have the most base model you can get, just bought it to drive into the ground (long commute). I have gotten more than my moneys worth!

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  fooled - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By miffed - August 31 - 2:00 am

  Had a chevy z-24 prior to buying the standard 2 door coupe and loved it!! So much has gone wrong with this car I dont even know where to start. The transmision is new, the engine gasket, numerous brake problems, water pump, new trunk latch, alternator, and much more that I am forgeting about at the moment. I am so fed up with chevy that I now refuse to buy another GM product!!! I would advise any one looking into buying a car to stay away from the cavalier. The only good thing about the car is the sticker price but you will end up paying alot more.

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  28/08/02 - 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Z24Guy - August 27 - 2:00 am

  Incredibly fun to drive.

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  2000 Chev Z24 review - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By ORF - August 26 - 2:00 am

  My Z24 outperforms other compact coupes in many ways. It was thousands of dollars (Cdn) cheaper than Japanese rivals and the 150hp engine offers ample mid-range torque that most Japanese engines dont have. Shifting is crisp and smooth with the Getrag 5- speed. Ride is stiff but helps a lot keeping the car stable during cornering. Reliability is better than expected. The only problems I have encountered so far were the erratic fuel guage and battery leakage, which were fixed under warranty. Overall the car is very fun to drive and inexpensive to own.

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  2000 Cavalier - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By rips - August 24 - 2:00 am

  The car runs great. It has been in Florida the whole time and has not been exposed to the winter elements and salt from the roads.

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  One of the best cars I have owned - 1993 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Gurney - August 21 - 2:00 am

  Had this car for ten years. Changed oil every 3000 miles and treated engine and transmission with Slick 50. My daughter drove it to college for 4 years. I drive it almost everyday. Have replaced many things as they wore out and she continues to run beautifully. After 184000 miles the engine burns no oil and the oil is clen everytime I change it.

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  Just give them a real suspension - 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By thestevester - August 20 - 2:00 am

  Have put 22,000 miles on my 2001 Z24 since buying it new last year.I Have had no problems at all.Great looks and a good price.The car handles very well and is only lacking a better suspension.The build quality on mine is very good,much tighter and no rattles compared to my 91 z24(also bought new).2.4 is a little loud at idle but quiets down on the road.Great on the highway but it can get tiresome driving the manual around town,especially on bad roads when the car feels like it falls right in to potholes.

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  I am proud of my cavalier! - 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By agent 99 - August 18 - 2:00 am

  look I am single, working mom. I need a car that works and plays as hard as me and my daughter. I have met my match in the 99 chevy cavalier. Whoopee!!!! The gas mileage is easy on my fragile finances and hey, I look good in its sleek design...met a nice man who noticed me pumping gas...was it me he noticed or the car?